My main goal in running our design studio is simple: spend less time on admin work and more time creating. When you take the freelance or small studio route, you don’t just become a designer, you’re also the accountant, project manager, assistant, and coffee runner. It’s a lot. If you’re not careful, it can drain your creative energy fast.

What ten years of freelancing as graphic designer has taught me:

This year marks ten years of freelancing. I still can’t believe it’s been that long but here I am. To say it’s been a rollercoaster ride is an understatement. The days are long but the years now feel short. To celebrate this milestone, here are ten takeaways—advice, lessons, unsolicited thoughts—to do with what you will, in no particular order.